Keeping the global force connected

INFORMATION PROFESSIONAL

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INFORMATION PROFESSIONAL

Essential to everyday operations is the ability to communicate effectively and securely in the cyber domain. Central to these efforts are those who harness information, technology and knowledge while overseeing the seamless operation of the global Naval Network Environment.

JOB DESCRIPTIONThe job of an Information Professional (IP) is to help enable the free flow of information – serving as the first line of network defense; mapping out the network platforms of the future; and ensuring the viability, interoperability and effectiveness of the technology and systems that support Navy operations. With expertise in information systems, command and control, and space systems, IPs harness technology, information and knowledge to ensure battlespace dominance and mission success.

Serving as Officers (four-year degree required), IPs are leaders in the Information Dominance Corps (IDC) – a group of highly specialized information experts fully integrated across surface, subsurface, air, space and cyberspace domains. With shared functions, capabilities and resources, IDC members leverage their skills to optimize decision making and to maximize the use of sensors, weapons, network communications and control systems for purposes of national security and warfighting.

SPECIFIC RESPONSIBILITIESDecision making, intelligence, understanding of the maritime environment and shipboard operations – all depend on the work of Information Professionals. As an IP, you will plan, acquire, secure, operate and maintain the Naval network and the systems that support Navy operations and business processes. This role may include:

• Leading the Naval network warfare missions in developing tactics, techniques and procedures to realize tactical, strategic and business advantages afloat and ashore

• Driving interoperability with Joint, Allied and Coalition partners• Building professional excellence through a career-long continuum of education, training

and certification, and achievement of successive milestone qualifications and experience• Optimizing Naval organization effectiveness through cutting-edge technologies,

Knowledge Management techniques and a culture of innovation• Overseeing the work of Information Systems Technicians – Enlisted Sailors (no degree

required) who serve as specialists in information technology

WORK ENVIRONMENTInformation Professionals serve in challenging roles of increasing scope and responsibility both afloat and ashore. This could include being part of Battle Group Staffs on ships at sea, working in C4I/Space/Surveillance on shore tours, serving on major Navy and Joint staffs as well as in command of key communication and surveillance facilities around the globe.

MAINTAINING SUPERIORITY IN THE INFORMATION AGEINFORMATION & TECHNOLOGY

In a highly networked world, information is everywhere – easier to access and increasingly exploitable. Today’s technological advancements make information both a formidable weapon and a constant threat – to the point that it has evolved into a type of warfare all its own. With this in mind, America’s Navy has the Information Dominance Corps (IDC) – a community charged with mastering the capabilities, tools and techniques required to effectively collect, process, analyze and apply information.

Gathering data through sources ranging from advanced cyberspace operations to unmanned surveillance systems. Converting data into effective and actionable intelligence. Maintaining cutting-edge communications networks that effectively share and safeguard information. It’s all part of the mission for those who serve in the professional areas of information and technology in America’s Navy – for those warriors who do battle within the cyberspace domain and the electromagnetic spectrum.

Made up of both Enlisted Sailors and Officers, IDC members specialize in information-intensive fields that include Information Management, Information Technology, Information Warfare, Cyber Warfare, Cryptology, Intelligence, and Meteorology & Oceanography. Collaboratively, they develop and defend vital intelligence, networks and systems. Managing the critical information that supports U.S. Navy, Joint and national warfighting requirements. Maintaining the Navy’s essential technological edge.

Visit facebook.com/NavyCryptologyAndTechnology to ask questions. Get answers. And connect with others just like you.

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INFORMATION PROFESSIONAL

TRAINING AND ADVANCEMENTThose pursuing an Information Professional Officer position are required to attend Officer Candidate School (OCS) in Newport, R.I. Upon completion, they typically attend a five-week IP Basic Course of instruction in Pensacola, Fla., before or during their initial assignment.

From there, IPs are required to complete specific qualifications as part of their operational training during Fleet tours and are expected to pursue advanced education opportunities. In the course of service, specialized training received could lead to credentialing and/or certification opportunities from a number of national boards and organizations. Promotion opportunities are regularly available but are competitive and based on performance.

EDUCATION OPPORTUNITIESBeyond professional credentials and certifications, Information Professionals can advance their education through the Servicemembers Opportunity Colleges Navy (SOCNAV) Degree Program, by pursuing opportunities at institutions such as Naval Postgraduate School (NPS) or Navy War College (NWC) and by completing Joint Professional Military Education (JPME) at one of the various service colleges.

Postgraduate education is very important to the success of those serving as Information Professionals. Most IPs will attend the Naval Postgraduate School (NPS) to complete a master’s degree in C4I, space, information systems, computer science, or modeling and simulation. There’s potential to earn a graduate certificate at National Defense University or NPS as well as highly valued DoD certifications. And highly sought-after Federal Executive Fellowships, Information Assurance Scholarships and internships are also potentially available.

PAY RANGELike most positions, promotions depend upon your performance and time in service. Navy Officers are rewarded with excellent benefits – including a competitive salary and opportunities to earn additional pay for special duty.

BENEFITSWhen it comes to financial advantages, the Navy amounts to much more than a competitive paycheck. As a Navy Officer, you can look forward to:*

• Supplemental/bonus pay• Scheduled pay raises and regular promotions• Postgraduate education, fully funded by the Navy• Post-9/11 GI Bill – funding for you or your family to use for school• 30 days’ vacation with pay earned every year• Outstanding retirement benefits, plus a 401(k)-like thrift savings plan• Comprehensive medical and dental coverage• Tax-free allowances for housing and meals• Tax-free shopping privileges at military stores• Free or low-cost travel opportunities• Access to military clubs and Navy recreational facilities

*Benefits and training may vary for Navy Reserve. Contact a Navy Reserve Recruiter for details.

READY TO TAKE THE NEXT STEPS? Once you’re inspired, better informed and seriously interested, here’s how to proceed:

1. TALK TO YOUR RECRUITER• Ask questions • Discuss your long-term goals• Review your qualifications• Go over relevant financial incentives and bonuses

2. APPLY FOR THE POSITION• Provide personal information that includes birth

certificate, social security card and professional details (if applicable)

• Take the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) to help assess your skills and interests

• Pass a full medical examination• Participate in a precommitment interview

3. BEGIN YOUR TRAINING• If you have a college degree, attend Officer Candidate School• If you have a college degree and you’re joining the

Navy Reserve, attend the Direct Commission Officer Development Course in Newport, RI, where you’ll learn the history, traditions and structure of the Navy and Navy Reserve

• Take the Information Professional Basic Course, where you’ll gain the skills and knowledge specific to your duties as an Information Professional

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QUALIFICATIONSA four-year degree is required to work as an Information Professional. Candidates seeking an Officer position in this community must have a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution in a technical field, preferably in Information Systems, Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Information Operations, Computer Science, Systems Engineering or General Engineering

All candidates must also be U.S. citizens, willing to serve worldwide, eligible for a Top Secret/Sensitive Compartmented Information (SCI) security clearance, and qualified for sea duty.

AFTER THE NAVYThe specialized training and expertise you gain as an Information Professional may prepare you for a wide range of job opportunities available within the federal government, including future employment in areas such as Security Administration, Intelligence, Computer Engineering and Information Technology Management.

Other career opportunities in the civilian sector include work as Computer and Information Systems Managers, Computer Systems Analysts, Computer User Support Specialists, Database Administrators, and Network and Computer Systems Administrators.

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SERVICE OPTIONSActive Duty Officers serve full-time. This allows you to take full advantage of the available career and leadership opportunities. Enjoy the broad range of benefits. And experience incredible possibilities for travel and adventure.

Reserve Officers serve part-time. This way you can maintain a civilian career while serving as few as two days a month and two weeks a year, with opportunities for additional service and pay. Additionally, you’ll have the possibility of flexible drilling options to better meet service requirements. While enjoying many of the same advantages and benefits of full-time service.